We are living during a time of rapid technological change. Emerging technologies---notably information and life science technologies---have profound social, political, psychological and ethical implications. Public perceptions of emerging technologies are potentially volatile. The Swinburne National Technology and Society Monitor was developed by the Australian Centre for Emerging Technologies and Society (ACETS) at Swinburne University of Technology. It involves a representative nationwide survey of Australians, and provides an annual ‘snapshot’ of public perceptions regarding new technologies in Australia. The 2006 Monitor is the fourth edition of the Swinburne National Technology and Society Monitor. It provides a snapshot of public perceptions in 2006, and how these perceptions have changed since 2003. [Introduction]